Economy 7 and Off-Peak Tariffs: Money Saver or Hidden Danger

Economy 7 tariffs are currently offered by all major energy companies and work on the premise that you will pay less to use energy during off-peak hours. But is it encouraging people to charge their devices while they are out or asleep? And are people aware of the risks that they could be exposing themselves to?

Economy 7

The majority of Economy 7 tariffs run on the basis that the day rates are higher than the average but the off-peak (or night rates) are much better than the average. Therefore, if you use 70% of your energy in off-peak times, you could save around £250 a year on your bills.

Many Economy 7 tariffs class ‘off-peak’ as midnight until 7 a.m., meaning that the majority of energy use has to be done between those hours to make the most of the lower rates. If you don’t, you could actually end up paying more!

Money Saver

It’s easy to see how this could be a money saver for some. You can do the following high-energy tasks overnight when they cost less:

And much more!

However, these are all tasks that you should NOT do while asleep.

Hidden Danger

It is well known that the above appliances, such as tumble dryers and car chargers, can be a fire risk.

Fire safety experts have been warning consumers for years that they should not be used when you are out, or asleep.

If you do, and any issues do occur, the fire could get out of hand before you could take any action.

The Firechief team, and Fire Rescue Services across the UK, have been working hard to highlight the risks and dangers of Lithium-ion battery fires. These batteries are found in electric cars, laptops, phones, cordless hoovers, and more! All things that you could tempted to charge overnight as you sleep.

With the higher daytime rate and lower night-time rate, it would make the most financial and economical sense to charge these items overnight while many of us are sleeping. However, by doing so, people are putting themselves at a higher risk.

Our Advice

We share the following tips to avoid lithium-ion battery, and other types of, fires:

To find out more about economy 7 tariffs, we got our information from MoneySavingExpert, and to learn more about fire safety and batteries, we have more information on our website: https://batteryfiresafety.co.uk/

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers and the Kitchen Stove Guard.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

Economy 7 and Off-Peak Tariffs: Money Saver or Hidden Danger Economy 7 tariffs are currently offered by all major energy companies and work on the premise that you will pay […]

The increasing danger of wildfires across the UK and around the globe have been widely reported. If you type the words wildfire or disposable BBQ into a search engine there will be thousands upon thousands of results, news articles, and discussion pieces. But among the noise, what is that you actually need to know? And how can you stay safe?

The link between BBQs and wildfires

When temperatures are high for a sustained period, grass and foliage can become so dry that the smallest spark can trigger a devastating fire.

Things like discarded cigarettes and littered glass can cause unmanageable fires.

There has, however, been a bigger problem emerging over the past few years: disposable BBQs.

Their low cost, ready availability, and disposable nature, means that they are a huge contributor to wildfire incidences.

As they are low to the ground, their heat and sparks can easily pass to surrounding grass, and the tendency of people to leave them smouldering unattended once they have been used increases the risk.

The Guardian reported in 2020 that fire crews had extinguished 30 unattended barbecues from one beach in Dorset in a single night.

The risks of wildfires

There are a multitude of well-known risks with wildfires. They not only ruin wildlife habitats and destroy property, but they can also pose a serious risk to our health, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions.

Property damage

Generally thought to be reserved for hotter climates such as America or Australia, the increase in wildfires in the UK have led to many considering how they protect their homes and property.

Insurers are also having to consider the risks and include them in home insurance policies.

A wildfire in Wennington, Essex, last year destroyed 17 homes, with residents still suffering with the aftermath a year later.

Wildlife destruction

The loss of precious habitats is a well-publicised negative effect of wildfires, especially across national parks and nature reserves.

In Norfolk, nature reserves lost over 100 acres of habitat as a result of wildfires in July 2022.

This can be devastating for rare species of birds and wildlife, as they struggle to survive when their habitat is gone.

Health risks

What many of us don’t realise though, is that wildfires give off harmful amounts of smoke containing a mixture of gases and particles that are detrimental to our health.

As Dr Wiseman states, common symptoms include:

It can also cause severe respiratory distress in those with pre-existing respiratory conditions.

How to prevent wildfires

Wildfire prevention generally involves a fair amount of common sense. Dispose of cigarettes, BBQs, and other lit objects correctly, be aware of your surroundings, and keep any activities under control.

For disposable BBQs, it is important to use it in a raised position and away from combustible materials. Many parks and outdoor spaces, such as Rutland Water, now have designated BBQ areas with raised platforms for disposable BBQs to be used safely. You should also wait for the flames to die down before introducing food to it, and let it cool for several hours before safely disposing of it.

It is also advisable to take small pieces of firefighting equipment with you or have it easily accessible in your car should the worst happen.

Small fire extinguishers can provide peace of mind that you would have options if a fire was to break out and would help to potentially put out a fire before it turned into an uncontrollable blaze.

 

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers and the Kitchen Stove Guard.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

The increasing danger of wildfires across the UK and around the globe have been widely reported. If you type the words wildfire or disposable BBQ into a search engine there […]

Student fire safety week highlights both the risks and innovations in the student housing sector. For many, going to college, university, or placements will be the first time they live away from home. For others, it will mean that it’s the first time they have their own space to cook, live, and meet new friends. These experiences are valuable, but it is important to keep students safe while they explore life in purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA)

The Student and PBSA Boom

Despite the recent changes to student loan rules, the number of people applying to, and attending, universities continue to rise.

Leading property agents Savills have published an article examining the rise of students and the demand for PBSAs. They have highlighted UCAS predictions that foresee the number of university applicants rising to 1 million a year by 2030.

Pair this with the reduction of HMOs and private rentals available to students, and many are now looking to purpose-built student accommodation for housing.

This has prompted investment in PBSAs from property investors around the world.

Student Fire Safety

There are many fire risks associated with PBSAs and students.

They range from the general home fire risks, such as leaving appliances on, overloading plug sockets, and leaving food cooking unattended, to more specific factors such as post-night out cooking and lighting candles under the influence of alcohol.

Research from Energy Manager Magazine found that 15% of students admit to having fallen asleep while cooking – as an ex-student myself, I would guess the actual number is much higher than we’d like to think!

There is also a risk in the proximity of PBSAs and other apartment buildings. If a fire does breakout, for example, in the kitchen, this can easily spread to other rooms, flats, and floors.

Innovations and Safety Measures

There are many ways that PBSA and rented accommodation owners can protect their tenants and property from the risk of fire.

Student fire safety has, and always will be, a great concern for students, property owners, and families, and this is reflected in the stringent regulations for landlords.

As a result, in student accommodation you should readily find fire extinguishers, fire blankets, fire doors, fire alarm systems, and more.

Recent innovations in the fire industry have also given students and landlords greater peace of mind.

The development of Kitchen StoveGuard technology provides superior protection for avoiding fires before they even begin. The device detects increasing temperatures on electric hobs and can shut down the power once the preset temperature is reached and well before a fire becomes imminent.

These student fire safety measures all contribute to the safety of the buildings and help to tackle the common accidents that many experience.

To read more about PBSAs and case studies where the kitchen Stove Guard has been successfully specified and installed, head to the website here.

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers and the Kitchen Stove Guard.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.

 

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Student fire safety week highlights both the risks and innovations in the student housing sector. For many, going to college, university, or placements will be the first time they live […]

BBQs are a mainstay of British summertime. Even when the weather is terrible, you’d be able to find a family huddled under a gazebo enjoying a burger or two and complaining about the rain (that’s probably happened more often than we’d like to admit with the weather we’ve had this summer!). But come rain or shine, the great British barbecue can bring joy to any day – until disaster strikes. BBQs create a unique risk in our properties but, when managed correctly, with the right safety measures in place, BBQ fire risks can be managed. We’ve put a handy guide together for you to understand the different types of BBQ and their fire risks.

Different types of BBQ

To help put this article together, we did a bit of research into the most recognisable and common types of household BBQ. They were:

Technically a pizza oven is not a BBQ, but in the interest of being thorough, and with the rise in popularity of them recently, we thought it would be helpful to include them!

BBQ Fire Risks

It is well known that BBQs pose a fire risk to humans, animals, and property.

The Home Office published a report on all accidental fires attended in September 2022 exploring fires attended by FRSs in England between April 2021 and March 2022 and detailed that 259 were caused by barbecues.

While this is probably just a fraction of the BBQ fires that probably happened in that year – as many would be unreported or put out by the owner – it shows that BBQ fires aren’t as rare as you’d think.

To help people stay safe while using their BBQs we have collated a guide of different types of BBQs and the fire risks associated with them.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into it!

Charcoal BBQs

Why Choose a Charcoal BBQ?

Charcoal BBQs are known for giving an authentic BBQ taste. They work using bags of charcoal, which you add to your barbecue before cooking.

They are praised for being:

Charcoal BBQ Fire Risks

These BBQs use charcoal to produce the heat and cook food. The dangers here can be before, during and after cooking.

Lighter fluids used to light the charcoal can be dangerous, while grease and fat dripping on the coals during cooking can cause flare ups.

You also cannot “turn off” the coals after cooking, they need to be left to cool before being disposed of, otherwise they can cause fires through the residual heat.

Gas BBQs

Why Choose a Gas BBQ?

Convenient and quick to heat up, gas BBQs offer the ease that most people are looking for. They don’t require the long slow barbecuing that people generally associate with charcoal BBQs.

They are also known for providing direct and consistent heat, allowing the user to change the temperature accurately and easily.

Gas BBQ Fire Risks

Gas BBQs have the same associated risks as with other gas-fired appliances. They generally require a cylinder of gas and it is important to look after them properly.

You should:

Grease, dirt, and spiders can also collect in the BBQ and gas cylinder valves which obstruct gas flow and can cause ‘flashback’ fires. It is essential to keep it clean and have home firefighting equipment available in case of emergency.

Electric BBQs

Why Choose an Electric BBQ?

Electric BBQs have seen growing popularity in the past couple of years. They are renowned for being portable, convenient, controllable, and, generally, safer.

They are commonly cheaper than other types of BBQs and don’t require the purchase of fuels such as gas or charcoal.

Electric BBQ Fire Risks

However, the benefits of being portable and not requiring added fuel are what pose the greatest risk for users. Lithium-ion batteries, that are used to power many electric BBQs with the ability to be portable, can react badly to overheating, misuse or damage, whether accidental or not.

Puncturing, impacts, and overcharging can all lead to a process called ‘thermal runaway’ which can cause the battery to explode!

Wood-Fired BBQs & Fire Pits

Why Choose a Wood-Fired BBQ or Fire Pit?

Wood-fired BBQs and fire pits can be used as a feature in your garden, as well as a method of cooking. They are generally seen as an item of quality, fitting a certain aesthetic while cooking food in a more traditional way.

They can come in many shapes and sizes and provide a multitude of benefits.

Wood-Fired BBQ & Fire Pit Fire Risks

The obvious danger with these is that they are generally open to the elements and use wood which is less easily controlled. The use of fire aids can be difficult to control, and the danger of catching items such as clothing, material, or hair, in the fire and spreading it is increased.

Portable & Disposable BBQs

Why Choose a Portable or Disposable BBQ?

Portable and disposable BBQs can be highly convenient when travelling, on a sunny day, or as a treat. They require less upkeep, storage, and expense.

Portable & Disposable BBQ Fire Risks

The dangers of portable and disposable BBQs are widely known. They have been linked to wildfires across the world with some supermarkets across the UK withdrawing them from sale.

When correctly used, they can be a great addition to a day, however, they can easily cause fires from spilt fuel sources, improper disposal, or careless use.

Pizza Oven

Why Choose a Pizza Oven?

Pizza ovens have become a staple for many with the emergence of affordable, portable models. They are convenient and easy to use, giving the user access to high quality pizzas in their own home. With little upkeep and maintenance needed, they provide a little luxury at a reasonable price.

Pizza Oven Fire Risks

Pizza ovens are generally compact and use gas to get to incredibly high temperatures, cooking pizzas quickly and efficiently.

The gas canisters pose the same risks as detailed in the gas BBQs section and the high temperatures mean that there is a risk of materials, that come into contact with the oven, igniting.

There’s a lot of information to know about BBQs and keeping your home and loved ones safe from fire, if you want to know more about how you fight the fires, should they happen, head to familyfiresafety.com

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

BBQs are a mainstay of British summertime. Even when the weather is terrible, you’d be able to find a family huddled under a gazebo enjoying a burger or two and […]

Trying to keep employees, visitors, and workers safe is both a legal and moral obligation for business owners, health and safety officers, and the dedicated ‘responsible person’. But workplace fire safety can be a confusing issue! Different regulations, options, and innovations can be hard to keep on top of. We’re here to help, with the essentials you need to keep your workplace fire safe.

Workplace Fire Safety Essentials

There are, of course, different requirements and suitable equipment for each industry. A qualified fire risk assessor can help you establish the risks of your workplace and provide advice on how to combat these risks.

There are some key essentials that every workplace needs, regardless of whether it is an office, warehouse, factory, or public building, though.

We’re going to focus on these workplace fire safety essentials in this blog but you can find out more about your industry specifically on the Firechief website.

Relevant Fire Extinguishers

Every workspace needs at least one fire extinguisher.

The number and different types of extinguishers required will depend on the size of your premises and the fire risks related to your office, factory, or warehouse.

There are lots of fire extinguisher options out there: foam, powder, CO2, wet chem, PFAS free foam, water, water mist…and that’s before you start factoring in the difference in sizes!

Thankfully we have a useful blog that details which fire extinguisher/s are needed for each type of fire. From this, you’ll be able to judge which would best suit your workplace and the specific fire risks.

A quick round up is as follows:

  1. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguisher: Ideal for all electrical risks and where oils and spirits etc are in use as it is harmless to delicate equipment and materials.
  2. Foam Fire Extinguisher: A good solution for multi-risk usage.
  3. Wet Chemical Extinguisher:Will cool burning oils and reduce re-ignition of the flames.
  4. Water Fire Extinguisher: A well performing, multiple purpose extinguisher.
  5. Water Additive Fire Extinguisher: Contains a powerful 'EcoSpray' additive and works well where manual handling restrictions apply.
  6. Powder Fire Extinguisher: Can tackle most fires which involve wood, paper, flammable liquids and electrics. Powder Fire extinguishers can also be used on vehicle fires and can be stored in cars or commercial vehicles.

Lithium-ion Battery Fire Fighting Products

Lithium-ion batteries power a vast range of devices we use daily, from smartphones and laptops to power tools and electric vehicles. While these batteries offer convenience and efficiency, they also carry a potential risk of fire when overcharged, improperly stored, or damaged.

A single battery malfunction can quickly escalate into a devastating fire, putting lives at risk and causing irreparable damage to your business.

There are multiple products that can help reduce the risk of battery fires, such as storage bags, and suppression granules, and products that can help fight the fires once they’ve started.

To find out more, there is a wealth of knowledge on batteryfiresafety.co.uk.

Fire Blankets

The majority of workplaces have a kitchen or canteen area.

No kitchen area is complete without a fire blanket to smother flames should the need arise.

But not just used for kitchens, fire blankets can also be used to smother flames on a person, for instance, when their clothes have caught fire.

A fire blanket is an adaptable and flexible piece of fire-fighting equipment.  Available in a range of sizes and in either a hard or soft case, the blanket is accessed simply by pulling on the Velcro strips.

To learn about all things fire blankets, check out this blog.

Fire Alarm Systems

Fire alarms are essential for every building in a business and should be tested weekly.

There are a wide range of fire alarm systems out there with both battery and mains power operation.

Visual alarms are also extremely useful for warehouses and factories as they offer a dual warning with the use of red LED technology as well as an audible alarm to draw the attention of all employees in its range.

The many options available can be confusing, we have a quick guide to commercial fire alarm systems here to help.

Fire Exit Signs

Fire exit signs are essential for all businesses to guide users to the correct exit.

Panic, and the instinct to use the usual exit when the fire alarm sounds, can lead to awful consequences. Minimise these risks as much as possible with clear, easy-to-follow signage which can direct people to the safest route.

You can get emergency exit boxes and exit hanging signs which use long-life LEDs for maximum durability. There are many options to suit every workplace.

A comprehensive guide to fire safety signs can be found here.

Emergency Lighting

During a fire, there is an increased risk of the main power supply cutting out.

Emergency lighting can be crucial for employees and customers to exit the building safely.

But the function of emergency lighting is not to illuminate a building when the power goes out. The role of emergency lighting is to illuminate key areas that are required in an emergency.

There are lots of options to choose from. Some can operate in emergency mode for up to 3 hours, or maybe more in some cases!

You can read this blog for more information on this important subject.

Fire Safety Logbooks and Cabinets

Each workplace has essential documentation relating to fire safety that should be kept secure.

It is crucial to keep all documents that a fire officer would need, such as Fire Safety Logbooks, fire equipment maintenance records, and plans relating to the building, in a safe place.

Logbooks and lockable fire safety document storage cabinets can be bought online or in stores to ensure that all your information is in one place.

Not convinced? Read our full blog here.

First Aid Kits

Accidents of all kinds occur, and having a first aid kit with all its contents intact is essential.

Over the years, various bits and pieces may have been used but not replaced.

However, you are also accountable for replacing expired or used products. So make sure you regularly note what is missing to ensure that your business is prepared for any accident!

Useful Workplace Fire Safety Resources

  1. Fire safety in the workplace – Gov.uk
  2. Firechief – I need to protect…
  3. Fire Extinguishers – Types & Uses
  4. Firechief Lith-ex Extinguisher - Video
  5. Lithium-ion battery fire suppression granules for the workplace
  6. Fire Blankets – What you need to know
  7. Why is emergency lighting important?
  8. The 5 biggest workplace fire hazards – IFSEC Insider
  9. A quick guide to commercial fire alarm systems
  10. Fire safety signs – clearing the confusion
  11. Why you should consider using fire logbooks and document cabinets

Fire Depot has been the UK's favourite fire safety supplier for over 50 years, we know the fire protection and prevention business inside out. Our experienced team can offer advice and guidance about any of our fire safety products. For expert help and advice, please contact the Fire Depot team on 0330 999 2233, email us at sales@firedepot.co.uk or visit https://www.firedepot.co.uk/ to see our full range of fire safety products. 

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

Trying to keep employees, visitors, and workers safe is both a legal and moral obligation for business owners, health and safety officers, and the dedicated ‘responsible person’. But workplace fire […]

It might surprise many to learn that schools in England are nearly twice as likely to suffer from a fire as other types of commercial buildings, according to research from insurance company, Zurich Municipal.

Fire risks in schools

The insurer attributes this to a number of reasons including:

These issues have resulted in nearly 2,000 school blazes in the last three years. And follow recent calls for sprinklers to be made mandatory in schools in England. Larger fires in schools cost on average £2.8 million to repair and in some cases over £20 million. Sprinklers are compulsory in all new or major refurbished school buildings in Scotland and Wales. But this is not the case in England. In fact, they are fitted in fewer than one in six new schools,  Zurich believes .

Tilden Watson, Zurich Municipal’s Head of Education, commented: “An alarming number of school buildings pose a high fire risk – yet many are poorly protected against a potential blaze. Unless Ministers bring England into line with other parts of the UK, where sprinklers are mandatory, large fires will continue to blight schools. This is harming children’s education and putting lives at risk.”

Nick Coombe, Protection Vice Chair and Building Safety Programme Lead for the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: “The case for sprinklers is compelling. Of almost 1,000 fires over five years in buildings where sprinklers were fitted, our research found they controlled or extinguished blazes in 99% of cases.  Sprinklers can dramatically reduce fire damage, making the reopening of a school much easier. This not only minimises the disruption to a pupil’s education, but also the impact on their family, the community, and the wider education establishment.”

Further safety research

According to the Fire Industry Association (FIA), one in 20 schools experience fire with almost 60% started deliberately.

A spate of maliciously activated hoax fire alarms in several colleges has led multiple bodies to condemn this reckless behaviour. These include Council Chiefs, the Police and the Fire and Rescue Service. They warn that the unnecessary emergency callouts could stop genuine emergencies being attended and even result in a ‘needless tragedy.’ One school was evacuated seven times in the first 12 days of a new term due to hoax fire alarms. Fire crews attended one school on seven occasions in one week, due to pupils repeatedly setting off the fire alarm.

This underlines the importance of fire alarms in schools having anti-vandal alarm call points to deter pupils from causing unwanted false fire alarms.

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

*Data was taken from 26,800 schools in England. The analysis shows that the average fire risk is almost double that of most other non-residential buildings.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.

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It might surprise many to learn that schools in England are nearly twice as likely to suffer from a fire as other types of commercial buildings, according to research from […]

Fire extinguishers perform a vital role in the suppression of small fires. As one of the first lines of defence against fire, it is the responsibility of the responsible person (RP) of a premises to ensure that all extinguishers are serviced in accordance with BS 5306-3.

  1. Corrosion

An extinguisher cylinder is manufactured from steel or aluminium and is designed to withstand the internal forces of the pressurised gas. Over time, this metal may begin to corrode or deteriorate from stress and compromise the structural integrity of the cylinder which can result in the failure of an extinguisher.

 

  1. Tampering

If your fire extinguishers are in public areas, there is always the possibility that someone may tamper with them. Tampering can range from removing the headcap seal or the locking pin, loosening the hose, discharging some of the contents, or moving the extinguisher away from its specific, designated point.  Some of the tampering may have been unintentional, such as when an extinguisher is moved for cleaning or used as a door stop.

 

Fire extinguishers will be checked for any tampering during servicing. However, if you consider that an extinguisher has been tampered with, you should call your service engineer to check and rectify any problems.

 

  1. Hose Blockage

The discharge hose of fire extinguishers may, over time, become blocked by debris or insects, resulting in impaired functionality when used. The hose and connector O-rings may also deteriorate over time.

 

  1. Leakage

The weight of the fire extinguisher is clearly marked on each maintenance label. This is not so that you know how heavy it is, but because the extinguisher’s weight is the simplest method of telling whether the contents are correct.

 

  1. General Wear

Fire extinguishers will experience general ‘wear and tear’ over the years, from a little scuff on the paint to fading labels. However, the consequences of seemingly innocuous damage can be greater than one may have originally thought. For example, over time, as the maintenance label on the extinguishers become faded the important information the technician needs also becomes illegible.

 

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers for your home and leisure time.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.

 

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Fire extinguishers perform a vital role in the suppression of small fires. As one of the first lines of defence against fire, it is the responsibility of the responsible person […]

This week is Business Safety Week* (5th - 11th September) and an opportunity for fire industry professionals to talk to their customers about complying with fire safety law and reducing their risk of fire.

It's probably not a question that many businesses really want to consider but it is absolutely essential to do so.  Would their insurance company pay out in the event of a fire?

It is unfortunate, but not uncommon, for businesses to be completely obliterated by a single fire. According to statistics provided by insurance companies, of those businesses that are hit, around 80% cease trading within as little as 18 months. With that in mind, it makes sense for a business to do everything it can to prevent disaster striking.

Who is responsible for fire safety?

Employers, building owners, landlords, occupiers, or anyone else with control of a premises - such as a facilities or building manager or a managing agent is responsible for fire safety in a business or other non-domestic premises.  So as a fire industry professional, what steps should you encourage them to take in order to protect not just the lives of their employees, but their building, its contents, and their insurance cover too?

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) recommends a robust fire risk assessment, carried out by a competent individual, to ensure that all parts of the building have been accounted for and the risks have been considered and planned for. The risk assessment will highlight not only what fire protection equipment is needed but also where.

Fire extinguishers

Are there fire extinguishers available for use?

Are they suitable for the risks?

Are they correctly maintained?

Are the extinguishers due for a discharge test?

Have the persons who are expected to use the extinguishers, received training in the correct type of extinguisher to use and how to use them?

Fire Alarm System

Does the premises need a fire alarm system?

If so, what category is required?

Has the system been designed by a person qualified to design systems?

If already installed, has the system been installed correctly?

Is the documentation in the form of certificates for the Design, Installation, Commissioning and Handover of the system and were the certificates issued by reputable companies?

Is the system regularly maintained and is there evidence available to support this, such as the fire alarm logbook?

If asked, we always recommend that quality fire safety equipment is installed by a BAFE qualified engineer, and that Responsible Persons get help and advice. This is especially important when you consider that ultimate responsibility for the competency and engineering skills of the installer or service provider is on the owner of the fire system - and there is nothing to prevent unqualified and inexperienced organisations from operating in the fire industry.

Getting insured

It might appear to be a straightforward process to simply go to an insurance broker and get your business insured.  Certainly, having adequate fire protection equipment installed and maintained by a competent fire industry professional will reduce the risk of fire causing damage to the business. However, the fire protection equipment chosen may have an effect on the insurance cover. Insurance companies vary greatly with their criteria, and some may refuse to insure a company, or it may even be difficult to insure a business that does not have adequate fire protection under certain circumstances.

For insurance purposes, how the building is constructed and divided up and the measures in place to stop or slow the spread of fire will also be a key factor.  You may be unsure about the construction of the building and what measures are in place for fire protection, such as in-built dry risers for example. In this case this information will need to be obtained, probably from the construction company or building owner. If the building does have in-built dry risers, it's also worth noting that according to the Fire Service, up to 60% of these have never been tested but since these are also the responsibility of the Responsible Person, they can certainly invalidate insurance if they are not being maintained.

*Business Safety Week is an annual event organised by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) and supported by Fire and Rescue Services. Its aim is to make small and medium-sized businesses aware of their legal and moral fire safety responsibilities in the workplace.

The Firechief® range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers and the Kitchen Stove Guard. For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader's risk.

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This week is Business Safety Week* (5th – 11th September) and an opportunity for fire industry professionals to talk to their customers about complying with fire safety law and reducing […]

Those responsible for fire safety in workplaces and other buildings to which the public have access can avoid fire incidents by adopting the right behaviours and procedures. Here we take look at five of the most important fire safety documents which should be on display in your work premises:

Health and Safety Law Poster

Employers must display the Health and Safety Executive’s health and safety law poster. The only alternative to this is to provide each and every worker in your organisation with a copy of an approved leaflet or an equivalent pocket card.  However, it’s much more effective, much cheaper, and far less work to display your health and safety law poster on a noticeboard where workers can easily read it.

Health and Safety Policy

It’s also good practice to display the company’s health and safety policy. Depending upon the size and type of the business this could run into hundreds of pages, so it isn’t really practical to display on a noticeboard in its entirety. However, what many businesses do is display the first part of the policy, the statement of intent. This lists the company’s aims for health and safety in a clear and simple way and is signed and dated by the person who is responsible for health and safety in the workplace.

Employers Liability Insurance

One or more valid copies of your employer’s liability insurance should be on display. This shows that their insurance is fully up to date, but it also shows much more than this. It shows employees and visitors that the business takes its health and safety considerations seriously.

First Aiders

Employers are required to make appropriate first-aid arrangements in the workplace. This means considering the particular circumstances of the workplace, the workers and the health and safety risks that may be present. For example, the arrangements for a small office will be quite different from a construction site where the health and safety risks are higher. One of the key things is to have fully trained and appointed first aiders and display these clearly on noticeboards. In the event of an accident, a trained first aider can be quickly contacted to give vital first aid whilst an ambulance arrives.

Fire Evacuation Arrangements

As well as first-aiders, it is crucial that a workplace noticeboard displays fire precautions and fire evacuation arrangements in the event of a fire. The information that should be provided should include:

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers for your home and leisure time.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

Those responsible for fire safety in workplaces and other buildings to which the public have access can avoid fire incidents by adopting the right behaviours and procedures. Here we take […]

The Firechief Fire Safety Logbook enables business and premises owners to record and maintain fire safety procedures and equipment required by legislation. It is a simple and effective way of ensuring faults are highlighted, equipment is tested regularly, and actions are taken to maintain fire safety.

The logbook also communicates vital information to anyone who needs it and helps prove lawful compliance with regulations.

The fire safety logbook should record regular checks and findings on:

Escape routes

All escape routes on the property must be properly maintained and kept free from any obstructions at all times.  A regular inspection should be carried out to ensure the following:

Fire Fighting Equipment

Emergency Lighting

Regular servicing of emergency lighting systems is essential. The responsible person for the premises should carry out or appoint a competent person to carry out the inspections needed.

  1. The monthly function test can be carried out by a trained person as this simply involves switching on the lights for short period to ensure they illuminate and switching back off
  2. The annual discharge tests should be carried out by a competent and suitable qualified electrical engineer in accordance with the current standard for Emergency Lighting, BS 5266.

Fire Doors

Periodic checks should be carried out at least every 6 months, however, if there is a lot of traffic using the door this should then be more regularly.

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers for your home and leisure time.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

The Firechief Fire Safety Logbook enables business and premises owners to record and maintain fire safety procedures and equipment required by legislation. It is a simple and effective way of […]

Student accommodation brings with it a number of risks and requires a range of precautions to keep people safe. Fire safety in student accommodation can be easy to overlook but it is paramount in keeping people safe.

Risks for fire safety in student accommodation

The first consideration is the persons at risk. Generally, student accommodation is occupied by younger persons, often living independently for the first time, with a consequent lack of experience.  The UK attracts many foreign students, for whom English is not always a first language and as university sites have become more accessible over the decades an increasing number of students with disabilities may also be present. The social side of university life also means that on some nights students may have consumed alcohol, which can affect response and behaviour; and finally, the premises are used as sleeping accommodation, which itself elevates the risk.

Identifying the associated fire risks is important and a variety of these are often found including:

  1. Portable electrical appliances: A variety of equipment is likely to be introduced by students including IT equipment, phones, chargers, e-cigarettes, kitchen appliances, fans, etc. Overloading sockets is one risk, using damaged items is another and increasingly fires are caused by use of cheap non-OEM chargers.
  2. Storage and charging of lithium-ion battery appliances from e-cigarettes up to scooters and similar. These are increasingly associated with fires and are often located in hallways which blocks escape routes.
  3. Cooking, including the use of cooking oils in pans and woks. There is a greater risk when cooking is left unattended or the person cooking the food is tired or under the influence of alcohol or other substances. A cluttered kitchen can lead to tea towels and dishcloths being close to hobs too!
  4. Use of naked flames, be it smoking, candles or incense sticks/burners; these present obvious risks of their own.
  5. The impact of a fire can be spread by other actions, including but not limited to:
    • Covering smoke detectors to stop false alarms from cooking, smoking or other sources
    • Propping open fire doors within the accommodation
    • Poor housekeeping with build-up of rubbish and storage
    • Ignoring fire alarms

How to stay safe

Once the risks have been identified they can be addressed and eliminated or reduced. General fire precautions can be introduced to help should the worst still happen including:

A whole host of other fire protection measures are usually present-  especially on larger sites -including smoke control systems, sprinklers and much more.

All these systems require appropriate maintenance to ensure they will perform as designed when needed.

Having a clear emergency plan is vital too – as well as ensuring that students are aware of it. Good resident engagement is required to ensure they are aware of the correct action in the event of a fire and also of the fire risks present and how to avoid them. The importance of the fire safety systems should be stressed, including that of fire doors, which are so often compromised.

By correct assessment of risks and the implementation of suitable fire safety measures and their maintenance, the student experience should be a safe one from a fire point of view.

Fire Depot has been the UK's favourite fire safety supplier for over 50 years, we know the fire protection and prevention business inside out. Our experienced team can offer advice and guidance about any of our fire safety products. For expert help and advice, please contact the Fire Depot team on 0330 999 2233, email us at sales@firedepot.co.ukor visit https://www.firedepot.co.uk/ to see our full range of fire safety products.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

Student accommodation brings with it a number of risks and requires a range of precautions to keep people safe. Fire safety in student accommodation can be easy to overlook but […]

With the heatwave continuing, it is a perfect opportunity to get out the BBQ and invite friends and family over to enjoy it. However, as great, and tasty BBQs are, they can also be dangerous if not used with caution.

To avoid injuries or damage to property, Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service recommend following these simple precautions:

  1. Barbecue fire safety tips:

Never leave a barbecue unattended

Ensure the barbecue is on a flat surface, well away from a shed, trees, or shrubs

Keep children, garden games and pets away from the cooking area

Keep a bucket of water / sand nearby for emergencies

Ensure the barbecue is cool before attempting to move it

  1. Be carbon monoxide aware:

Never use fuel-burning devices (e.g., disposable barbecues, camping stoves, camping heaters, lanterns etc) inside a tent. Using these indoors can cause Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning. They give off fumes for hours after you have used them – levels high enough to result in CO poisoning.

To avoid hazardous CO exposures, fuel-burning equipment should never be used inside a tent, camper, or any other enclosed shelter. Fuel burning equipment includes camping stoves, heaters, lanterns etc.  Opening tent flaps, doors or windows is insufficient to prevent build-up of CO concentrations from these devices. When using these fuel-burning devices outdoors, the exhaust should not vent into enclosed shelters.

The biggest danger is the use of flammable liquids to light the barbecue, which is extremely dangerous. Cheshire Fire & Rescue have reported a couple of occasions where people have poured petrol onto the charcoal in an effect to get the BBQ going and the reaction has been both violent and dangerous. It is recommended to prepare well in advance and light the charcoal early. You want to enjoy the BBQ, not for it to end in disaster!

The Firechief range includes high-performance fire extinguishers, fire blankets, first aid kits, lithium-ion fire extinguishers for your home and leisure time.  For more information, call us on +44 (0)330 999 0019 or email sales@firechiefglobal.com.

The information contained within this blog is provided solely for general informational and educational purposes and is not intended as a substitute for professional advice. Before taking any actions based upon this information, we advise the reader to consult any and all relevant statutory or regulatory guidance and where felt necessary to consult a qualified fire or industry regulation professional. The use or reliance on any information contained herein is solely at the reader’s risk.[related_products is_auto_added="1"]

With the heatwave continuing, it is a perfect opportunity to get out the BBQ and invite friends and family over to enjoy it. However, as great, and tasty BBQs are, […]